India’s 17-year-old chess prodigy, D Gukesh, achieved a remarkable feat by emerging victorious in the Candidates Chess Tournament, making him the youngest contender ever for the world title. His next challenge awaits against the current world champion, Ding Liren of China, later this year. Gukesh secured nine points out of a potential 14, concluding with a draw in his final round against American player Hikaru Nakamura. This historic victory places him alongside the esteemed Viswanathan Anand as only the second Indian to claim victory in the Candidates tournament. Anand, a five-time world champion, achieved this feat back in 2014.
Expressing his delight, Anand took to ‘X’ to extend his congratulations to Gukesh, commending his exceptional performance and resilience in facing challenging circumstances. Notably, both Anand and Gukesh hail from Chennai.
Congratulations to @DGukesh for becoming the youngest challenger. The @WacaChess family is so proud of what you have done . I’m personally very proud of how you played and handled tough situations. Enjoy the moment
— Viswanathan Anand (@vishy64theking) April 22, 2024
The outcome of Gukesh’s triumph hinged on the final match between Ian Nepomniachtchi of Russia and top-seeded American Fabiano Caruana, which ended in a draw as required. Had either player emerged as the victor, a tie-breaker would have been necessary, as Gukesh and the winner would have shared the lead.
Gukesh’s ascent in the chess world has been steadily gaining attention, particularly since he became the third-youngest Grandmaster in chess history at the age of 12. Additionally, he clinched a silver medal at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year.
Details regarding the dates and venue for the upcoming world championship event are yet to be finalized.
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